10 Deliciously Simple Side Dishes to Serve with Your Meals

When it comes to cooking a delicious meal, the supporting cast of simple side dishes can often make or break the entire dining experience. A perfectly seasoned side of roasted vegetables or a crispy batch of garlic bread can elevate a humble protein from ordinary to extraordinary.

The good news is that you don’t need to be a culinary master to whip up a show-stopping side dish – with a little creativity and some basic pantry staples, you can create a variety of tasty and easy-to-make options that will complement your favorite recipes and leave your family and friends begging for more.

Garlic Butter Roasted Vegetables

Garlic Butter Roasted Vegetables are a delightful blend of fresh seasonal veggies, enhanced by a rich garlic butter sauce. This simple side dish not only adds vibrant colors to your plate but also brings intense flavors that complement any main course. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, these roasted veggies are sure to impress family and friends alike.

PIN IT

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). 2. In a large bowl, combine an assortment of chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and broccoli. 3. In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat, then add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant. 4. Pour the garlic butter over the vegetables and toss well to coat. 5. Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if desired, sprinkle with herbs like thyme or rosemary. 7. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized. 8. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Chives

Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Chives are a delightful side dish that complements any meal. The combination of buttery, fluffy potatoes and fresh chives provides a comforting and flavorful experience. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your guests.

PIN IT

1. Begin by peeling and cubing 2 pounds of russet potatoes. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. 2. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. 3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. 4. Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh chives, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with additional chives if desired.

Herb-Infused Quinoa Salad

Herb-Infused Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and nourishing side dish that combines fluffy quinoa with a medley of fresh herbs and colorful vegetables. This salad not only offers a burst of flavor but also packs a nutritional punch, making it perfect for any meal. It’s easy to prepare and can be served warm or cold, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire of simple side dishes.

PIN IT

1. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water and cook according to package instructions. Typically, use 2 cups of water or broth and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy. 2. While the quinoa cooks, chop your choice of herbs such as parsley, cilantro, and mint, along with diced vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. 3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped herbs, and vegetables. 4. For the dressing, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, salt, and pepper to taste. 5. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss well, and serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Zesty Lemon Garlic Green Beans

Zesty Lemon Garlic Green Beans are a vibrant and refreshing side dish perfect for any meal. This dish boasts the zing of fresh lemon and the warmth of garlic, elevating tender green beans into a delightful accompaniment. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, it’s the ideal addition to your simple side dishes repertoire.

PIN IT

1. Start by washing and trimming the ends of 1 pound of fresh green beans. 2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the green beans. Blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green and tender-crisp. 3. Drain the beans and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. 4. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and add 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. 5. Add the drained green beans to the skillet and toss to coat them in the garlic oil. 6. Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over the green beans, and add salt and pepper to taste. 7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. 8. Serve warm, garnishing with lemon zest if desired.

Classic Coleslaw with Dressing

Classic coleslaw is a refreshing side dish that perfectly complements barbecues and picnics. Made with crisp cabbage, shredded carrots, and a creamy dressing, it offers a delightful crunch and tangy flavor. This easy-to-make salad not only adds color to your table but also serves as a versatile accompaniment for a variety of meals.

PIN IT

1. In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of shredded green cabbage, 1 cup of shredded carrots, and 1/2 cup of thinly sliced red cabbage. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. 3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined. 4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. 5. Serve chilled as a side dish.

Spicy Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges

Spicy Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges are a flavorful and healthy side dish that pairs well with any main course. These crispy wedges are tossed in a blend of spices that add a kick, making them a perfect option for those who love a bit of heat. Simple to prepare, they are sure to be a hit at your dining table.

PIN IT

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). 2. Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into wedges. 3. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt. 4. Toss the sweet potato wedges in the spice mixture until evenly coated. 5. Spread the wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 6. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wedges are golden and crispy. 7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries

Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fries. These savory bites are coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a side dish or a snack, they provide a satisfying crunch and the vibrant flavor of zucchini.

PIN IT

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. Cut zucchini into thin strips resembling fries. 3. In a bowl, combine bread crumbs and grated parmesan cheese. 4. In another bowl, whisk an egg. 5. Dip each zucchini strip into the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. 6. Place the coated zucchini fries on the baking sheet in a single layer. 7. Spray the fries lightly with cooking spray. 8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy. 9. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Seasoned Rice Pilaf with Peas

Seasoned Rice Pilaf with Peas is a flavorful and aromatic dish that perfectly complements any meal. This simple side dish combines tender rice with fresh peas and a blend of spices for a delightful taste. Easy to prepare, it adds a touch of elegance to your dining table.

PIN IT

1. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. 2. Add 1 cup of finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. 3. Stir in 1 cup of long-grain rice and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly toasted. 4. Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth and add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of thyme. 5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover, cooking for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. 6. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and fold in 1 cup of frozen peas. 7. Cover again and let the peas warm through for about 5 minutes before serving.

Simple Mediterranean Cucumber Salad

Simple Mediterranean Cucumber Salad is a refreshing side dish perfect for any meal. Bursting with fresh flavors, it combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy dressing for a delightful taste experience. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also adds a vibrant touch to your dining table.

PIN IT

1. Start by washing and slicing 2 large cucumbers into thin rounds. 2. Chop 1 cup of cherry tomatoes in half and add them to the bowl with cucumbers. 3. Finely chop 1/4 red onion and add it to the mixture. 4. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. 5. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to combine. 6. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Savory Corn on the Cob

Savory Corn on the Cob is a delightful summer side dish that highlights the sweet, natural flavors of fresh corn. Grilled or boiled, this dish is often enhanced with a variety of toppings, such as butter, herbs, and spices. It’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings, bringing a taste of joy to any meal.

PIN IT

1. Start by husking the corn and removing any silk. 2. If boiling, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. 3. For boiling, add the corn to the boiling water and cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender. For grilling, place the corn directly on the grill grates and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred. 4. Once cooked, remove the corn from the heat and let it cool slightly. 5. Spread butter generously over each ear of corn and season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices before serving.